IRELAND
Irish Times
Lorna Siggins, Western Correspondent
Former bishop of Galway Dr Eamonn Casey (78) plans to return to live in the diocese, almost 14 years after he quit in controversial circumstances.
He is expected to move to the south of the diocese, but will not be able to work while an inquiry continues into child abuse allegations made against him late last year. It is understood that Dr Casey is confident that his name will be cleared on foot of the inquiry being conducted in Limerick.
Bishop of Galway Dr Martin Drennan could not be contacted for comment last night, and Catholic Communications Office spokesman Martin Long said he could neither confirm nor deny the report. But it is understood Dr Casey has been in touch with Church authorities.
He has returned to Galway privately several times and his experiences have led him to believe he will receive a sympathetic response from former parishioners. Another consideration last night was the generally understanding attitude shown in east Galway earlier this week when it was confirmed a 73-year-old priest had fathered a child.